CARNATION — With increased funding and plans for anenhanced medical center this spring, Camp Korey at Carnation Farm is taking steps to double its camper capacity in 2012. Camp Korey’s year-round programs are always free of charge to children with serious medical conditions and their families.Now, thanks to grant funding from the Employees Community Fund of Boeing Puget Sound, more kids than ever before will have the opportunity to enjoy a happy and healthy camp experience this year.

After tragically losing his 18-year-old son Korey to bone cancer, Tim Rose was inspired to create a safe haven for other children and families battling lifethreatening illnesses and serious health issues.

Carnation Farm’s Grey Gables was originally built in 1926, and now houses Camp Korey’s medical center and pharmacy. Thanks to $40,000 in support from the Employees Community Fund of Boeing Puget Sound, the Kid-Vitalization Project will enhance Grey Gables with state-of-the-art medical equipment. Improvements will increase efficiency and help to provide sound care for a higher number of campers. A design and implementation plan for the project was formed following a needs-assessment conducted by the camp’s Medical Advisory Board. “Our world-class medical facilities and staff sets Camp Korey apart from other traditional camps around the Northwest,” says Executive Director Hillary Carey. “We set the bar extremely high for our programs and facilities, and thanks to the generosity of Boeing employees, we are able to reach our goals for safety and health standards. Children who are unable to attend other camps can come to Camp Korey and experience the many joys of childhood while receiving the important medical attention they require.” With retrofits slated for completion by June 1, the newly enhanced medical center will be fully operational in time for Camp Korey’s signature summer programs. Thecamp will serve at least 600 children and 1,800 family members this year.

To learn more about supporting Camp Korey, please visit www.campkorey.org.